In this study, a generational, gendered, and intersectional approach is used to investigate the lived experience of housing insecurity, homelessness risk and homelessness experienced by a diverse range of young women and young gender diverse people aged 18 to 30 years. It provides recommendations to address the inequities in access to housing that are generational, gendered and intersectional. 

Using a ‘housing aspirations’ lens, this research centres the voices and lived experiences of young women and young gender diverse people, to focus on housing challenges experienced by them in contemporary Australia, as well as to identify and articulate the housing solutions that they say are needed.

Recommendations

• Housing as a human right: recognise housing as a fundamental right and implement policies that guarantee safe, secure and affordable homes for all.
• Gender responsive housing: expand the availability of housing that prioritises safety and security for women and gender diverse people.
• Youth representation: ensure that young women and gender diverse people are actively involved in housing policy decisions.
• Culturally safe housing: ensure self-determined, culturally safe housing for First Nations women and gender diverse people.
• Place-based solutions: develop tailored housing solutions that address the unique needs of regional and remote communities, including access to essential services and support.
• Mental health support: provide targeted mental health services to address the psychological effects of housing insecurity.
• Educational hubs: create accessible information hubs to guide young people through rental rights, homeownership, and financial literacy.
• Cost of living relief: provide immediate financial relief by raising JobSeeker payments and significantly increasing social housing investment.